Hunter returns to compete for old job

When running back Kendall Hunter popped into the 49ers’ huddle for the first time in more than eight months Saturday afternoon, he was greeted by a hearty round of applause from members of the first-string offense.

Hunter didn’t take a bow: He’s too busy trying to earn back his job.

After sustaining a torn Achilles in late November, Hunter was activated from the physically unable to perform list Saturday and participated in the 49ers’ annual Fan Fest practice at Candlestick Park.

Jim Harbaugh said Hunter will be eased back into action: He played a handful of snaps Saturday and isn’t sure if he will play in Friday’s preseason game at Kansas City. Harbaugh also said Hunter will be competing with LaMichael James to win back his spot as the No. 2 back behind Frank Gore.

“Whenever you’re coming off of an injury, you’ve got to prove that you’re back to 100 percent,” Harbaugh said. “And, also, you’ve got to be better than other people. But we all know what Kendall’s about.”

In 2012, Hunter, 24, was a productive complement to Gore. He rushed for 371 yards and averaged 5.2 a carry in 11 games before he was injured against the Saints on Nov. 25.

Two weeks after Hunter was sidelined, James made his NFL debut and capably assumed his role in seven games, including the playoffs. The 2012 second-round pick had 190 yards, averaged 5.0 yards a carry and scored on a 15-yard scamper in the NFC Championship Game.

“You’ve got compete for anything,” Hunter said. “Anything you want you’ve got compete for and go out and do it. Nothing comes easy.”

Assuming Hunter regains his previous form, it’s possible that both he and James will receive plenty of playing time behind Gore, who turned 30 in May and ranks third among active running backs in career rushing attempts (1,911).

In April, general manager Trent Baalke repeated that he prefers a three-pronged backfield with runners featuring contrasting styles. Gore is a shifty power back, James is a speedster and Hunter, despite his 5-foot-7, 199-pound frame, is capable of running between the tackles and getting outside.

“We are big believers in a three-headed approach,” Baalke said. “In other words, having a group of backs that bring to the table something a little bit different than the other so you can do a lot of different things. But also having those backs be able to do enough things the same so you don’t become so predictable on game day.”